Abstract

The WSe2nanorods were synthesized via solid-state reaction method and characterized by X-ray
diffractometer, TEM, and HRTEM. The results indicated the WSe2compounds had rod-like structures with diameters of 10–50 nm and lengths of 100–400
nm, and the growth process of WSe2nanorods was discussed on the basis of the experimental facts. The tribological properties
of WSe2nanorods as additives in HVI500 base oil were investigated by UMT-2 multispecimen
tribotester. Under the determinate conditions, the friction coefficient of the base
oil containing WSe2nanorods was lower than that of the base oil, and decreased with increasing mass fraction
of WSe2nanorods when it was <7 wt.%. Moreover, the base oil with the additives was rather
suited to high load and high rotating speed. A combination of rolling friction, sliding
friction, and stable tribofilm on the rubbing surface could explain the good friction
and wear properties of WSe2nanorods as additives.